Allergies

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An allergy is an immune system response to a foreign
substance that’s not typically harmful to your body. These foreign substances
are called allergens. They can include certain foods, pollen, or pet dander.

Your immune system’s job is to keep you healthy by fighting
infection and other harmful pathogens. It does this by attacking anything it thinks
could put your body in danger. Depending on the allergen, this response may involve
inflammation, sneezing, or a host of other symptoms.

Your immune system normally adjusts to your environment. For
example, when your body encounters something like pet dander, it should realize
it’s harmless. In people with dander allergies, the immune system perceives it as
an outside invader threatening the body and attacks it.

Allergies are common, and several treatments can help you
avoid annoying and troublesome symptoms.

Causes and types of allergies

Allergies have a genetic component, meaning that they can be
passed down from parent to child. However, only a general susceptibility to
allergic reaction is genetic. Specific allergies are not passed down. For
instance, if your mother is allergic to shellfish, it doesn’t necessarily mean
that you will be too.

plants: pollens from grass, weeds, and
trees, as well as resin from plants such as poison ivy and poison oak

other: latex, metals

Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, are some of the
most common allergies. These are caused by pollen released by plants. They
cause:

itchy
eyes

watery
eyes

runny
nose

coughing

When to see a doctor about allergies

Allergy symptoms can create many complications. Your doctor
can help determine the cause of your symptoms as well as the difference between
a sensitivity and a full-blown allergy. Your doctor can also teach you how to
manage your allergy symptoms.

For food allergies

Food allergies can trigger swelling, hives, nausea, fatigue,
and more. It may take a while for a person to realize that they have a food
allergy. If you have a serious reaction after a meal and you’re not sure why,
see a medical professional immediately. They can find the exact cause of your
reaction or refer you to a specialist.

For seasonal allergies

Hay fever symptoms can mimic those of a cold. They include
congestion, runny nose, and swollen eyes. Most of the time, you can manage
these symptoms at home using over-the-counter treatments. See your doctor if
your symptoms become unmanageable.

For severe allergies

Severe allergies can cause anaphylaxis. This is a
life-threatening emergency that can lead to breathing difficulties,
lightheadedness, and loss of consciousness. If you’re experiencing these symptoms after coming in contact with a
possible allergen, seek medical help immediately.

How allergies are diagnosed

Allergies can be diagnosed in several ways. First, your
doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical exam. They’ll also ask
about anything unusual you may have eaten recently and any substances you may
have come in contact with. For example, if you have a rash on your hands, your
doctor may ask if you put on latex gloves recently.

Process of elimination

Food allergies are typically diagnosed through a process of
elimination. Your doctor may have you follow an elimination diet. This
means you remove certain foods from your diet and then rate your symptoms. Then
you slowly add foods back into the diet and record your symptoms in a food
diary.

Skin test

Your doctor may also refer you to an allergist for testing
and treatment. A skin test is a common type of allergy test carried out by an
allergist. During this test, your skin is pricked or scratched with small
needles containing potential allergens. Your skin’s reaction is documented. If
you’re allergic to a particular substance, your skin will become red and
inflamed.

Blood test

Your doctor or allergist may also order a blood test known
as a radioallergosorbent test (RAST). Your blood will be tested for
the presence of allergy-causing antibodies (cells that react to allergens).

Allergy treatments

The best way to avoid allergies is avoiding whatever
triggers the reaction. If that’s not possible, there are treatment options
available.

Medication

Allergy treatment often includes medications like
antihistamines to control symptoms. The medication can be over-the-counter or
prescription, depending on the severity of your allergies.

Immunotherapy

Many people opt for immunotherapy. This involves several
injections over the course of a few years to help the body get used to your
allergy. Successful immunotherapy can prevent allergy symptoms from returning.

Emergency epinephrine

If you have a severe, life-threatening allergy, you should
carry an emergency epinephrine shot. The shot counters allergic reactions until
medical help arrives. Common brands of this treatment include EpiPen and
Twinject.

Alternatives

There are many natural treatments and supplements marketed
to treat allergies, but you should discuss these with your doctor before trying
them. Some natural treatments may contain other allergens.

Preventing symptoms

There is no way to prevent allergies. But there are ways to
prevent the symptoms from occurring. The best way to prevent allergy symptoms
is to avoid the allergens that trigger them.

Avoidance is the most effective way to prevent food allergy
symptoms. An elimination diet can help you determine the cause of your allergies
so you know how to avoid them. To help you avoid food allergens, thoroughly
read food labels and ask questions while dining out.

Preventing seasonal, contact, and other allergies comes down
to knowing where the allergens are located and how to avoid them. If you’re
allergic to dust, for example, you can help reduce symptoms by installing
proper air filters in your home, getting your air ducts professionally cleaned,
and dusting your home regularly.

Proper allergy testing can help you pinpoint your exact
triggers, which makes them easier to avoid.

Living with allergies

Allergies are common and don’t have life-threatening
consequences for most people. People who are at risk of anaphylaxis can learn
how to manage their allergies and what to do in an emergency situation.

Most allergies are manageable with avoidance, medications,
and lifestyle changes. Working with your doctor or allergist can help reduce
any major complications and make life more enjoyable.